by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager
The top seeds, favourites for gold, after recording a three matches to nil win over the Belgium outfit comprising Natacha Koszulap, Jana Bernard and Maelys Dahy, the no.8 seeds; a three-one success was recorded in opposition the French team comprising Leila Mostafavi, Lucie Gauthier and Isa Cok, the no.2 seeds.
A comprehensive win; perhaps not, the contest was closer than the eventual score-line may suggest, proceedings not commencing in the manner the champions elect may have hoped.
In the opening match of the contest Wong Chin Yau was beaten by Leili Mostafavi (12-10, 11-6, 7-11, 7-11, 11-8). Lee Ka Yee levelled matters by overcoming Lucie Gauthier (11-6, 11-5, 11-6), before Chau Wing Sze emerged successful against Camille Lutz in what proved the vital match of the engagement. She recovered from a two games to nil deficit to emerge successful by the very narrowest of margins in the decisive fifth game (7-11, 7-11, 11-5, 11-6, 12-10).
Breathing space for Hong Kong, the momentum now in their favour, Wong Chin Yau accounted for Lucie Gauthier (11-7, 11-8, 11-8) to bring matters to a conclusion.
Undoubtedly it was a brave effort by France who one round earlier had been most impressive; they had recorded a three-nil semi-final win in opposition to the Hungarian outfit formed by Fanni Harasztovich, Helga Dari and Veronika Menko.
Now, especially for Leila Mostafavi, Lucie Gauthier and Isa Cok, attention turns to the city of Metz; the 2018 French Junior and Cadet Open commences on Wednesday 25th April.
